Mental Health of International Migrant Workers Amidst Large-Scale Dormitory Outbreaks of COVID-19: A Population Survey

Saw, Y. E.; Tan, E. Y.; Buvanaswari, P.; Doshi, K.; Liu, J. C.

Background: In the COVID-19 pandemic, international migrant workers have faced increased vulnerability on account of their status. This study examined the mental health burden of COVID-19 amongst low-waged migrant workers involved in large-scale dormitory outbreaks within Singapore. Methods: Between 22 June to 11 October 2020, questionnaires were distributed in-person and online to 1011 migrant workers subjected to movement restrictions. Mental health symptoms were assessed using the 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). As covariates, we also assessed participants' socio-demographics, quarantine status, COVID-19 health concerns, financial stability, and exposure to news and misinformation. Linear regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with each of the three DASS-21 subscales. Findings: Complete movement restrictions (e.g., prolonged in-dormitory quarantine) were associated with increased depression and stress symptoms, while being diagnosed with COVID-19 was associated with increased anxiety. Participants who harboured fears about their health or job, perceived their health to be poorer, or had higher exposure to COVID-19 rumours reported higher scores on all three subscales. At a group level, documented rates of severe or extremely severe depression (3.1%, 95% CI: 2.1-4.3%), anxiety (4.1%, 95% CI: 2.9-5.5%), and stress (1.3%, 95% CI: 0.7-2.2%) were similar to those observed in the general population for the host country. Interpretation: The risk factors identified underscore how the COVID-19 pandemic may have an impact on the mental health of migrant workers. At the same time, we observed resilience amongst migrant workers, with no evidence of increased symptomology relative to the general population.